Poverty Bay Blues & Brews: Where Community, Music, and Service Come Together

When the sound of soulful blues mingles with the clink of pint glasses at Des Moines Beach Park, you know it’s time for one of the most anticipated traditions of the year: the Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival.

Now in its 16th year, this annual gathering is far more than a summer celebration of music and craft beer—it’s a testament to what happens when a community comes together for a greater purpose. Organized entirely by volunteers from the Rotary Club of Des Moines and Normandy Park, the festival has become both a cultural cornerstone and a powerful fundraising engine for local causes.

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A Legacy of Service

The Rotary Club’s roots in the Des Moines/Normandy Park area run deep, dating back to 1958. For decades, these “People of Action” have rolled up their sleeves to tackle some of the community’s most pressing concerns—from ensuring families don’t go hungry through ongoing support of the Des Moines Area Food Bank, to placing musical instruments in the hands of children who dream of playing in a school band but lack the resources.

Each ticket purchased for Blues & Brews helps power these efforts. In fact, 100% of the net proceeds raised from the festival are reinvested directly into programs that uplift and inspire. Whether it’s scholarships for local students or supporting Highline Music4Life, which provides instruments to youth, every pour and every note adds up to a stronger community.

Economic & Cultural Impact

The Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival draws between 800 and 1,200 attendees annually, many of whom travel from outside the city. They dine in local restaurants, shop in Des Moines’ small businesses, and discover the natural beauty of Des Moines Beach Park, which continues to grow in reputation as one of the region’s premier venues. This ripple effect benefits both local entrepreneurs and the city as a whole, showcasing Des Moines as a vibrant destination for visitors and potential future events.

A Partnership for the Future

In 2025, the Rotary Club is seeking to deepen its partnership with the City of Des Moines. The proposal includes a $10,000 in-kind contribution for the use of the park, with the city in turn receiving prominent sponsorship recognition, opportunities for leaders to connect directly with residents at the festival, and a $2,000 annual contribution toward Parks and Recreation youth scholarships.

This partnership is more than an exchange of resources—it’s a shared commitment to economic vitality, cultural enrichment, and the next generation of leaders.

An Invitation to Act

As festival day approaches, the excitement builds not just for the music and brews, but for the chance to be part of something bigger. If you’re a community leader—or simply someone who wants to make a difference—consider this your invitation. The Rotary Club of Des Moines and Normandy Park is always ready to welcome new members who want to exchange ideas, take action, and transform lives.

So raise a glass at the 2025 Poverty Bay Blues & Brews Festival. Celebrate the music, savor the flavors, and know that with every note and every pour, you’re helping to strengthen the fabric of our community.